Hypoglycemia is the state of having a glucose, or blood sugar, level that is too low to effectively fuel the body's cells. Glucose is what provides energy to the body and comes from the foods you eat. Hypoglycemia is usually related to diabetes, but non-diabetic hypoglycemia can occur in children who do not have diabetes. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include hunger, shakiness, sweating, sleepiness, confusion, anxiety, weakness and trouble speaking. Severe cases can cause seizures, coma or death. If your child suffers from hypoglycemia, diet alterations, in combination with medical care, can help keep symptoms at bay. Your child's pediatrician will give you specific instructions for treating her specific symptoms.
When To Eat
Eating at regular intervals keeps your child's blood sugar levels stable, which helps to prevent symptoms. Serving 5 or 6 small meals throughout the day rather than three large ones is a good way to do this. Don't let your child go longer than about four hours without food or her blood sugar may dip too low. Well-balanced meals can offer your child the glucose she needs to prevent symptoms, while also offering nutrients needed for overall health.
Foods To Include
Offering your hypoglycemic child foods that slowly release glucose into her bloodstream can prevent her blood sugar from dropping too low. These foods include complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, pasta and potatoes. Protein is also an important part of a hypoglycemia diet because it is converted into glucose, but at a slow rate, providing consistent supplies to your child's body. Healthy sources of protein include, lean meats, beans, eggs and fish. Foods that contain fiber slow down the passage of glucose in your child's intestines, allowing for more absorption. Since fiber digests slowly, this absorption occurs slowly and helps keep glucose stores stable. Good fiber choices include fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Increasing Blood Sugar
When you child's blood sugar dips, sugary foods or drinks will get her levels stabilized quickly. Some form of glucose is the best way to do this and foods that work well include orange juice, soft drinks and frosting. Glucose gels and tablets are available, which work quickly to alleviate symptoms of hyperglycemia within about 10 minutes. A glucagon shot may be necessary if your child's blood sugar becomes so low that she loses consciousness or is having a seizure. Kids Health recommends having something containing sugar with you at all times in the case of a drop in blood sugar. Your child's pediatrician can help you determine which foods and drinks are the best choice for your child's condition.
Meal Ideas
Planning ahead is an easy way to be sure you have the right foods on hand when your hypoglycemic child needs to eat. Write out the menu for a week and stock the foods in your refrigerator and pantry. Mix and match meal ideas based on what your child likes to eat and offer them regularly throughout the day. Some good choices include, yogurt and fruit, peanut butter on whole-wheat crackers, a baked potato with cheese, a sandwich made with whole-wheat bread, lean meat and low-fat cheese, grilled chicken with a vegetable salad, graham crackers and milk or soup with whole-wheat bread.
References
- National Diabetes Information Clearing House; Hypoglycemia; October 2008
- Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology; Hypoglycemia; Frank W. Jackson, MD
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock: Hypoglycemia Diet
- University of Illinois; Nutrition for Reactive Hypoglycemia; June 2007
- Drugs.com; Non-diabetic Hypoglycemia In Childhood; June 5, 2011
- KidsHealth; Hypoglycemia; Oct. 2010
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